Holistic Medicine Schools: Holistic Health Schools

The search for holistic medicine schools or holistic health schools can sometimes be frustrating if you want to learn alternative therapies in health medicine.

As mentioned on herb description and medicinal use, therapy of this type has been used for centuries to restore and maintain health. Before the advent of modern pharmaceuticals (around 1890-1930's) this type of treatment was all that was available. Holistic medicine schools have long taught students how to acheive mental, physical and emotional well being for their patients.

To begin to understand alternative treatment, it is necessary to realize that this is considered outside of conventional modern medicine. Chiropratic care, Ayurvedic, homeopathy, naturopathy and acupuncture now have individualized schools, thus demonstrating that the demand for these is increasing.

Chiropractors have long been able to alleviate suffering from chronic and acute back pain which is their specialty. At times this can ease headaches, and pain in the arms and legs. One of the best treatments for an acute "pinched nerve" is to get to the Chiropractor for an ajustment. This relieves the pressure on that nerve.

Chiropractic school is a five year program founded in the basics of science and then as students progress through this type of holistic health school, they become more specialized. There are NO courses in basic medicine or pharmacology in Chiropractic care which is a failing of the system. Calling a chiropractor "doctor" many times misleads patients into believing they can diagnose other illnesses and/or write prescriptions. While not criticizing the whole profession, this author has seen a chiropractor try to pass himself off as a medical doctor in a situation involving a trauma.

Acupuncture has long been recognized in holistic healing schools as beneficial in relieving pain, restoring mobility and helping other disorders. For example, approximately 50% of patients with migraine will respond to acupuncture treatments.

Naturopathic practitioners also learn alternative therapies in health medicine by attending accredited programs. The programs are shorter than chiropractic or even physician assistant and nurse practioner programs (PA and NP programs are all now Master's degree and heading towards PhD). Naturopaths attend for only four years and concentrate on teaching that the body's natural healing abilities can overcome illness. They do not believe in vaccinations, which has created much controversy. They do promote healthy lifestyle and support spiritual learning as part of health. They too are considered "drugless practitioners" as they cannot prescribe medications or order certain tests.

Another type of holistic healing school are the certificate programs available to become an herbalist. Many providers are now taking these herbal medicine classes online to augment an already existing practice.

Benefits of Holistic Medicine Schools

Graduates of alternative medicine programs learn to treat a variety of conditions with holistic healing. This can range from headaches to foot disorders (ie..top to bottom!). In addition they encourage spiritual and psychological growth while helping patients restore health and well being.

Many times courses in nutrition are offered as is hypnotherapy, hydrotherapy and other non-invasive therapies.

How To Find Holistic Healing Schools

First of all, make sure the school you are investigating is fully accredited. Only accredited schools will adhere to education requirements and thereby give you the education you deserve.

The Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges (ACCSC) is one of the agencies responsible for maintaining school accredidation. First of all, decide which career is best for you, then explore all the options, both online and offline holistic medicine schools.